Illinois Beginning Orchard Academy (IBOA)

Ready to grow fruit trees with confidence? The Illinois Beginning Orchard Academy (IBOA) is a six-week online training designed to give new growers the knowledge and tools to start and manage an orchard that thrives for years to come.

Join us for the fall offering of Illinois Beginning Orchard Academy (IBOA).

Schedule with topics

October 1 | Getting Started with Tree Fruit Production

• Introduction to the series and available resources
• Overview of tree fruit production and industry trends
• Tree fruit basics: pome fruits, stone fruits, and other specialty fruits
• Essential tree requirements: sunlight, pollination, and environmental considerations

October 8 | Building the Foundation

• Site selection and climate considerations
• Soil health and water management
• Orchard layouts, designs, and production systems

October 15 | Choosing and Planting Trees

• Selecting varieties and cultivars
• Understanding rootstocks
• Best practices for planting and establishment

October 22 | No Class

October 29 | Training Trees for Success

• Trellising systems
• Tree training methods
• Winter pruning techniques

November 5 | Managing Pests and Challenges

• Insect and disease management
• Weed control strategies
• Wildlife considerations
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles

November 12 | Seasonal Care and Harvest

• Fruit thinning and seasonal management
• Summer pruning
• Post-harvest disorders
• Harvesting and storage practices
• Series wrap-up and key takeaways